AB Volvo (VLVLY) reports on Volvo Group developments across transport and infrastructure solutions, including trucks, buses, construction equipment, marine and industrial power solutions, financing and uptime-related services. Recurring updates include quarterly and annual results, vehicle and service demand trends, product launches, partnerships, and manufacturing initiatives tied to more efficient and lower-emission operations.
Company announcements also cover shareholder actions, Annual General Meeting resolutions, dividends, board and governance matters, and selected research or foundation activities connected to Volvo's corporate history. VLVLY is an unsponsored ADR associated with AB Volvo, whose shares are listed on Nasdaq Stockholm.
Volvo Penta has announced the acquisition of ZEM, a marine battery systems supplier based in Norway, to enhance its position in marine electromobility. ZEM, with over 12 years of experience, has developed battery solutions for various maritime applications. This acquisition aligns with Volvo's sustainability goals and aims to leverage ZEM's expertise to accelerate product development in electric and hybrid marine solutions. Though ZEM will continue to operate independently, this collaboration is expected to expand Volvo Penta's capabilities in a rapidly evolving market.
AB Volvo's Board of Directors has proposed a distribution of proceeds from the sale of UD Trucks, amounting to SEK 9.50 per share, which totals approximately SEK 19 billion. An Extraordinary General Meeting is scheduled for June 29, 2021, to vote on this proposal, with the record date for distribution set for July 1, 2021. The Board emphasizes that even after the distribution, the company remains financially robust, allowing for continued investments in future technologies aimed at sustainable transport solutions.
On April 29, 2021, Daimler Truck AG and Volvo Group launched their joint venture, cellcentric, aiming to become a leading manufacturer of hydrogen fuel-cell systems for long-haul trucks. This venture signifies a commitment to sustainable transport, with plans to begin production in 2025. The partnership advocates for a comprehensive EU hydrogen policy to accelerate technology adoption and proposes establishing 300 hydrogen refueling stations by 2025 and 1,000 by 2030 in Europe. The initiative is part of broader efforts to achieve CO2 neutrality by 2050.
Volvo Group has acquired a 60% stake in Designwerk Technologies AG, a Swiss engineering firm specializing in electromobility products. This strategic investment enhances Volvo's niche offerings within the electromobility ecosystem. Designwerk's expertise in low-volume production of electric trucks, mobile chargers, and high-voltage battery systems aligns with Volvo's aim for climate-neutral transportation solutions. The deal, expected to close shortly, will not significantly impact Volvo's earnings or financial position.
In Q1 2021, Volvo Group reported a net sales increase of 3% to SEK 94.0 billion, with a significant adjusted operating income of SEK 11.8 billion and an operating margin of 12.6%. Adjusted sales, accounting for currency effects, rose by 13%. The company faced a SEK 1.1 billion impact from currency fluctuations but achieved earnings per share of SEK 4.35. Notable developments include a joint venture with Daimler for fuel cells and the completion of the UD Trucks transaction with Isuzu. However, production is hampered by semiconductor shortages.
On April 20, 2021, Volvo Trucks announced the sales start of three new heavy-duty all-electric trucks, enhancing its electrification strategy for heavy road transport. The Volvo FH, FM, and FMX models will address the growing demand from transport companies aiming for sustainability. With the potential to electrify 45% of EU goods transport, Volvo aims for electric trucks to comprise half of its European sales by 2030. The company also plans future hydrogen fuel cell trucks for long-distance transport, marking a significant step towards cleaner logistics.
The Volvo Group has announced a Capital Markets Day scheduled for November 11, 2021. This event will showcase the company's strategic direction focused on performance improvement and transformation towards sustainable solutions, including battery and fuel cell vehicles. The event details, such as whether it will be virtual or in-person, will be communicated in advance. Volvo Group, headquartered in Gothenburg, Sweden, generated net sales of approximately SEK 338 billion in 2020 and employs nearly 100,000 people worldwide.
Volvo Group and SSAB have signed a collaboration to produce the world’s first vehicles made from fossil-free steel, aiming for climate neutrality by 2050. Production of concept vehicles utilizing hydrogen-based steel will commence in 2021, with small-scale serial production expected in 2022. The partnership aims to enhance the sustainability of the supply chain and reduce the carbon footprint. SSAB plans to deliver fossil-free steel commercially by 2026, leveraging new technologies to meet the growing steel demand.
Volvo Autonomous Solutions has partnered with US-based Aurora to develop on-highway autonomous trucks. This long-term collaboration focuses on hub-to-hub applications in North America, emphasizing productivity, safety, and sustainability. The integration of Aurora's self-driving technology into Volvo trucks aims to advance Transport as a Service solutions. The partnership builds on previous projects and is expected to enhance commercial offerings for autonomous transport. Volvo aims to solidify its market presence in autonomous solutions by leveraging Aurora's technology and expertise.
On March 24, 2021, Volvo Group Venture Capital announced its investment in FourKites, a leader in real-time supply chain visibility. This partnership aims to drive innovation and enhance supply chain services. FourKites tracks over one million shipments daily, boasting 120% year-over-year growth, with 450,000 connected carriers. Despite the positive implications for growth, the investment is stated to have no significant impact on Volvo Group's earnings. The focus areas for investment include logistics services, site solutions, and electrical infrastructure across Europe and North America.